“We have come here to pass the winter, for though intrinsically little cheaper than Florence, as we are all driven to a hotel, we have got rid of horses and stable expenses altogether. Our economy up to this has not done much, but even a little seems to encourage, and I suppose that thrift is one of those remedies that requires to be introduced gradually into the system.
“I scribble a great deal—political hash amongst the rest—but not very profitable, for whatever is done without name is nearly always done without money. ‘Garibaldi,’ however, brought me about £50.
“Don’t bore yourself writing to me; but, if you like, let me write to you. I have plenty—too much—time on my hands, and it is about the last pleasure left me to commune with one who, though he has known me so long, still loves me.
“Charles is working hard away at his new trade, and likes it. His masters, the Messrs Sandell, have built a large foundry, and make all the materials of the rail.”
To Mr Alexander Spencer.
“Casa Capponi, Florence, Jan. 23, 1854.
“I am fully aware how difficult—impossible I might say—it is to obtain any reply to any demand from M’Glashan, and am therefore not impatient on that score. Besides that, from his repeated remonstrances and complaints about ‘Carew’ lately, I am more than disenchanted to renew my connection with him.
“I hope soon again to be at work on something new for Chapman & Hall.
“John and Anne give me the only good news I ever heard of ‘Sir Jasper’; but even were it worse than I like to believe, it can scarcely call for the criticisms M’G. forwards me. I really wrote it painstakingly and carefully, and, so far as in me lies, I try to do honestly with him.
“I have done nothing but feast and dance and other tomfooleries these last three weeks, for it is our Carnival; and to help me out of my slender exchequer, the Duke of Wellington has been here on a visit to us!”